Immigrants in the U.S. may face deportation for different reasons, including entering the country illegally or being charged with a crime.
The deportation process may differ, depending on the cause. For instance, those without travel documents or forged ones may experience an expedited process. On the other hand, those who are lawfully present in the country but have a criminal charge may go before a judge, making the process longer. This may give them enough time to defend the case and stay in the country.
But how can you stop deportation? Here is what you need to know.
Have a defense strategy
When facing a criminal charge that may result in removal from the country, it will help to defend yourself – pleading guilty is not the only option.
The defense strategies you employ will depend on the crime. You should seek guidance to determine the best solutions for your case. Your team may help you avoid conviction or argue that the crime was a minor offense, which means it may not have grounds for deportation.
Note that you may have a case in the criminal court and/or in the immigration court.
What should you do after the case?
If you are not convicted of the crime, and the deportation order is reversed, it will be best to avoid circumstances that may have led to the charge. A judge may be strict if you face another criminal charge.
Facing deportation due to a criminal charge, such as driving while intoxicated (DWI), sex or drug offenses, can be complicated. Although challenging, you should relax, follow instructions offered by the court and get legal guidance from an immigration lawyer to defend your rights. You have the right to a court hearing and can appeal a deportation order.